U.S. patent application number 16/527482 was filed with the patent office on 2021-02-04 for build-up resistant crop conveyor systems for agricultural machines.
The applicant listed for this patent is Deere & Company. Invention is credited to Jacob D. Kappelman.
Application Number | 20210029884 16/527482 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004257538 |
Filed Date | 2021-02-04 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20210029884 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kappelman; Jacob D. |
February 4, 2021 |
BUILD-UP RESISTANT CROP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS FOR AGRICULTURAL
MACHINES
Abstract
Crop conveyor systems having an enhanced resistance to crop
material build-up and suitable for usage in agricultural machines,
such as round balers, include a conveyor belt run extending along a
primary direction of belt travel, as well as a runner assembly
adjacent the conveyor belt run. The runner assembly includes, in
turn, elongated runners extending substantially parallel to the
primary direction of belt travel and spaced along a lateral axis
perpendicular to the primary direction of belt travel. Belt guide
surfaces are provided on the elongated runners and face the
conveyor belt run. The belt guide surfaces have convex surface
regions in a first section plane parallel to the lateral axis and
perpendicular to the primary direction of belt travel. The convex
surface regions increase conformity between the belt guide surfaces
and the conveyor belt run to reduce crop build-up on the elongated
runners during usage of the build-up resistant crop conveyor
system.
Inventors: |
Kappelman; Jacob D.; (Cedar
Falls, IA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Deere & Company |
Moline |
IL |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000004257538 |
Appl. No.: |
16/527482 |
Filed: |
July 31, 2019 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A01F 15/07 20130101;
A01F 15/18 20130101; A01F 2015/077 20130101; A01F 2015/183
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A01F 15/07 20060101
A01F015/07; A01F 15/18 20060101 A01F015/18 |
Claims
1. A build-up resistant crop conveyor system utilized within an
agricultural machine, the build-up resistant crop conveyor
comprising: a conveyor belt run extending along a primary direction
of belt travel; and a runner assembly adjacent the conveyor belt
run, the runner assembly comprising: elongated runners extending
substantially parallel to the primary direction of belt travel and
spaced along a lateral axis perpendicular to the primary direction
of belt travel; and belt guide surfaces provided on the elongated
runners and facing the conveyor belt run, the belt guide surfaces
comprising convex surface regions in a first section plane parallel
to the lateral axis and perpendicular to the primary direction of
belt travel, the convex surface regions increasing conformity
between the belt guide surfaces and the conveyor belt run to reduce
crop build-up on the elongated runners during usage of the build-up
resistant crop conveyor system.
2. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 1, further
comprising a roller supporting the conveyor belt run and extending
parallel to the lateral axis; wherein the belt guide surfaces
further comprise non-convex surface regions adjacent the
roller.
3. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 2, wherein
the non-convex surface regions have substantially flat surface
geometries in a second section plane parallel to the first section
plane.
4. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 1, wherein
the convex surface regions each have a surface geometry defined, at
least in substantial part, by a radius of curvature in the first
section plane.
5. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 4, wherein
the elongated runners have runner widths measured along the lateral
axis; and wherein the radius of curvature exceeds each of the
runner widths.
6. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 1, wherein
the elongated runners comprise: first end portions; second end
portions opposite the first end portions, as taken along
longitudinal axes of the elongated runners; and intermediate
portions extending between the first and second end portions, the
convex surface regions located on the intermediate portions of the
elongated runners.
7. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 6, wherein
the belt guide surfaces transition from substantially flat surface
geometries to convex surface geometries to when moving from the
first end portions to the intermediate portions of the elongated
runners.
8. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 7, wherein
the belt guide surfaces follow ramped contours when transitioning
from substantially flat surface geometries to the convex surface
geometries.
9. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 7, wherein
the belt guide surfaces further transition from additional
substantially flat surface geometries to the convex surface
geometries to when moving from the second end portions to the
intermediate portions of the elongated runners.
10. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 1, wherein
the runner assembly further comprises a cross-support member
extending across and joined to the elongated runners; and wherein
the belt guide surface further comprise non-convex surface regions
at locations adjacent the cross-support member.
11. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 1, wherein
the elongated runners comprise: front walls on which the belt guide
surfaces are located; and raised protrusions pressed into the front
walls from backsides thereof to define the convex surface regions,
the raised protrusions forming concavities in the backsides of the
front walls.
12. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 11,
wherein the elongated runners further comprise sidewalls integrally
joined to opposing longitudinal edges of the front walls and
imparting the elongated runners with U-shaped cross-sectional
geometries, as viewed along longitudinal axes of the elongated
runners.
13. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 1, wherein
the convex surface geometries are each define, at least in
substantial part, by a first radius of curvature taken in the first
section plane; wherein the conveyor belt run comprises a plurality
of conveyor belts arranged in a side-by-side relationship; and
wherein the plurality of conveyor belts comprise curved
runner-facing surfaces each having a second radius of curvature
taken in the first section plane, the second radius of curvature
substantially matching the first radius of curvature.
14. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 1, further
comprising a baler gate frame into which the runner assembly is
incorporated.
15. A build-up resistant crop conveyor system utilized within an
agricultural machine, the build-up resistant crop conveyor
comprising: a conveyor belt run extending in a primary direction of
belt travel; and a first elongated runner adjacent the conveyor
belt run and having a longitudinal axis extending substantially
parallel to the primary direction of belt travel, the first
elongated runner comprising: a first end portion; a second end
portion opposite the first end portion, as taken along a
longitudinal axis; an intermediate portion between the first and
second end portions; a belt guide surface extending from the first
end portion, across the intermediate portion, and to the second end
portion; and a raised protrusion formed in the intermediate portion
and extending toward the conveyor belt run, the raised protrusion
increasing conformity between the belt guide surface and the
conveyor belt run to reduce crop build-up on the elongated runner
during usage of the build-up resistant crop conveyor system.
16. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 15,
wherein the raised protrusion has a convex surface geometry in a
first section plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.
17. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 15,
wherein the first end portion has a substantially flat geometry as
taken in a second section plane parallel to the first section
plane.
18. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 15,
wherein first elongated runner has a wall thickness; and wherein
the raised protrusion has a peak height greater than or equal to at
least half the wall thickness.
19. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of claim 15,
wherein the first elongated runners has a runner length measured
along the longitudinal axis; and wherein the raised protrusion
extends at least a majority of the runner length.
20. A build-up resistant crop conveyor system, comprising: a
conveyor belt run extending along a primary direction of belt
travel, the conveyor belt run comprising: a plurality of conveyor
belts; and runner-facing surfaces provided on the plurality of
conveyor belts, the runner-facing surfaces having concave surface
geometries principally defined by radius of belt curvature in a
first section plane orthogonal to the primary direction of belt
travel; and elongated runners extending adjacent and substantially
parallel to the plurality of conveyor belts, the elongated runners
comprising belt guide surfaces having convex surface regions
defined by a radius of runner curvature in the first section plane;
wherein the convex surface regions of the belt guide surfaces are
contoured such that radius of runner curvature substantially
matches the radius of belt curvature.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
[0001] Not applicable.
STATEMENT OF FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0003] This disclosure relates to crop conveyor systems, which have
enhanced resistances to crop material build-up and which are
suitable for usage in round balers and other agricultural
machines.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0004] Crop conveyor systems are commonly integrated into
agricultural machines for moving crop material in an intended
manner. As a first example, crop conveyor systems are incorporated
the baling chambers of round balers to roll crop material into
cylindrical or round bales, which are then wrapped and ejected from
the baler. As a second example, windrowers (also referred to as
"swathers") typically include crop conveyor systems for
consolidating crop material into windrows as the windrower travels
over a field. As a still further example, combines (also referred
to as "agricultural harvesters") may be equipped with certain
header attachments, such as draper heads, containing crop conveyor
systems for gathering severed crop plants into the feederhouse of
the combine for processing. Regardless of the type of agricultural
machine into which a particular crop conveyor system is integrated,
it is generally desirable for the crop conveyor system to function
in an efficient, low friction, reliable manner over extended
periods of operation and across a wide range of crop
conditions.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0005] Crop conveyor systems having an enhanced resistance to crop
material build-up and suitable for usage in agricultural machines,
such as round balers, are provided. In various embodiments, the
build-up resistant crop conveyor system includes a conveyor belt
run extending along a primary direction of belt travel, as well as
a runner assembly adjacent the conveyor belt run. The runner
assembly includes, in turn, elongated runners extending
substantially parallel to the primary direction of belt travel and
spaced along a lateral axis perpendicular to the primary direction
of belt travel. Belt guide surfaces are provided on the elongated
runners and face the conveyor belt run. The belt guide surfaces
have convex surface regions in a first section plane parallel to
the lateral axis and perpendicular to the primary direction of belt
travel. The convex surface regions increase conformity between the
belt guide surfaces and the conveyor belt run to reduce crop
build-up on the elongated runners during usage of the build-up
resistant crop conveyor system.
[0006] In further embodiments, the build-up resistant crop conveyor
includes a conveyor belt run extending in a primary direction of
belt travel and a first elongated runner adjacent the conveyor belt
run. The first elongated runner has a longitudinal axis extending
substantially parallel to the primary direction of belt travel. The
first elongated runner further includes a first end portion, a
second end portion opposite the first end portion, and an
intermediate portion between the first and second end portions. A
belt guide surface extends from the first end portion, across the
intermediate portion, and to the second end portion. A raised
protrusion is formed in the intermediate portion and extends toward
the conveyor belt run. The raised protrusion is shaped or contoured
to increase conformity between the belt guide surface and the
conveyor belt run such that crop build-up on the elongated runner
is reduced during usage of the build-up resistant crop conveyor
system.
[0007] In still further embodiments, the build-up resistant crop
conveyor system contains a conveyor belt run extending along a
primary direction of belt travel. The conveyor belt run includes a
plurality of conveyor belts having runner-facing surfaces thereon.
The runner-facing surfaces of the conveyor belts have concave
surface geometries principally defined by radius of belt curvature
in a first section plane orthogonal to the primary direction of
belt travel. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system further
includes elongated runners extending adjacent and substantially
parallel to the plurality of conveyor belts. The elongated runners
include belt guide surfaces having convex surface regions defined
by a radius of runner curvature in the first section plane. The
convex surface regions of the belt guide surfaces are contoured
such that radius of runner curvature substantially matches the
radius of belt curvature.
[0008] The details of one or more embodiments are set-forth in the
accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and
advantages will become apparent from the description, the drawings,
and the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] At least one example of the present disclosure will
hereinafter be described in conjunction with the following
figures:
[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic of an agricultural machine (here, a
round baler) including a build-up resistant crop conveyor system,
as illustrated in accordance with an example embodiment of the
present disclosure;
[0011] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the round baler shown
in FIG. 1, as depicted when ejecting a round bale to more clearly
reveal a runner assembly suitably included in the example build-up
resistant crop conveyor system;
[0012] FIG. 3 is an isometric view of the gate frame included in
the round baler shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 further illustrating the
example runner assembly;
[0013] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of the example runner assembly
of FIGS. 1-3 shown in isolation;
[0014] FIGS. 5 and 6 are top and bottom isometric views,
respectively, of one of the elongated runners included in the
runner assembly shown in FIGS. 1-4;
[0015] FIG. 7 is an isometric cross-sectional view of the elongated
runner shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, as taken along a first section plane
encompassing line 7-7 (identified in FIGS. 5 and 6) and depicting
the convex cross-sectional surface geometry of a convex surface
region of the runner;
[0016] FIG. 8 is an isometric cross-sectional view of the elongated
runner shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, as taken along a second section
plane encompassing line 8-8 (identified in FIGS. 5 and 6),
depicting the substantially flat cross-sectional surface geometry
of a non-convex surface region of the runner;
[0017] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the elongated runner
shown in FIGS. 5-8 and a crop conveyor belt illustrating a high
conformance interface between a convex surface region of the runner
and a corresponding conveyor belt; and
[0018] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a conventional
elongated runner and a crop conveyor belt illustrating a low
conformity interface between a flat surface region of the runner
and a corresponding conveyor belt.
[0019] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like
elements. For simplicity and clarity of illustration, descriptions
and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to
avoid unnecessarily obscuring the example and non-limiting
embodiments of the invention described in the subsequent Detailed
Description. It should further be understood that features or
elements appearing in the accompanying figures are not necessarily
drawn to scale unless otherwise stated.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0020] Embodiments of the present disclosure are shown in the
accompanying figures of the drawings described briefly above.
Various modifications to the example embodiments may be
contemplated by one of skill in the art without departing from the
scope of the present invention, as set-forth the appended
claims.
Overview
[0021] As indicated above, various types of crop-handling
agricultural machines contain crop conveyor systems for moving crop
material in an intended manner. For example, and depending upon
implementation, a crop conveyor system may move crop material in a
manner consolidating newly-harvested crop plants for processing (as
in the case of a draper header for a combine), rolling the crop
material into a cylindrical bale (as in the case of a round baler),
forming the crop material into windrow (as in the case of a
windrower or swather), or to otherwise transporting material from
one location to another within an agricultural machine. A given
crop conveyor system may include one or more belt runs, with each
belt run including a single conveyor belt or a plurality of
conveyor belts arranged in a side-by-side relationship.
[0022] To help support and guide the conveyor belt run(s), certain
crop conveyor systems further include guide structures resembling
slatted panels and referred to herein as "runner assemblies."
Generally, a runner assembly includes a number of elongated support
members or "runners," which are spaced along lateral axis of the
runner assembly and which extend parallel to the primary direction
of belt travel; that is, the direction in which the conveyor
surfaces of a guided belt run principally move when passing
adjacent the runner assembly. The elongated runners have belt guide
surfaces, which face the conveyor belt run and which may
continually or intermittently contact the belt run during operation
of the crop conveyor system. The belt guide surfaces of the
elongated runners are conventionally imparted with flat surface
geometries and highly smooth surface finish to reduce friction
between the runners and the conveyor belt run, particularly when
the conveyor belt run rotates at relatively high belt speeds.
[0023] While providing low friction operation over an initial
period of usage, conventional runner assemblies often fail to
maintain low friction operation over extended periods of usage. In
many instances, this is due to the gradual build-up or accumulation
of crop material on certain regions of the elongated runners.
Specifically, loose crop material may adhere to the belt guide
surfaces of the runners; and, over time, increase in volume, harden
due to packing, and become difficult to dislodge. Deposition or
build-up of crop materials on the runners typically increases when
moving crop materials having relatively high moisture contents and
adhesion propensities; e.g., as may the case during silage
conditions. Such hardened crop material deposits are referred to
herein as "on-runner crop deposits." When sufficiently severe,
on-runner crop deposits may materially detract from the reliability
and overall performance levels of the crop conveyor system.
Specifically, on-runner crop deposits are often characterized by
high surface roughnesses, thereby causing undesirably high levels
of friction when contacting the rapidly rotating conveyor belt(s)
contained in the conveyor belt run. This, in turn, results in the
generation of high levels of waste heat, shortens the service life
of the belt run, and may otherwise detract from the performance of
the crop conveyor system.
[0024] Overcoming the above-noted limitations or technical
challenges, the following provides crop conveyor systems
characterized by enhanced resistances to the formation of on-runner
crop deposits. The enhanced resistance to the formation of
on-runner crop deposits is realized, at least in part, through a
unique and strategic contouring or shaping of the belt guide
surfaces of the runner assembly. Specifically, targeted regions the
belt guide surfaces are imparted with non-planar (e.g., convex)
surface geometries to increase physical conformance with the
conveyor belt or belts contained in the conveyor belt run guided by
the crop conveyor system. Such contouring of the belt guide
surfaces minimizes gaps in which loose crop material is otherwise
prone to deposit at the interface between the belt guide surfaces
of the elongated runners and the conveyor belt(s) of the belt run,
while maintaining a close proximity relationship between the
runners and the conveyor belt run over the entirety or substantial
entirety of the runner length. The likelihood of crop material
adhesion onto the runners and the formation of on-runner crop
deposits is decreased as result. Further, should crop material
temporarily adhere to the belt guide surfaces of the runners, the
belt run is more likely to remove such drop deposits by abrasion at
an early stage prior to further packing and hardening of the
deposit. In this manner, low friction operation can be better
maintained between the belt run and the runner assembly to prolong
belt life, to reduce friction-generated heat, and to otherwise
optimize crop conveyor system performance.
[0025] While selected regions of the elongated runners are imparted
with convex surface geometries in embodiments, as taken across the
runner widths, such surface convex geometries may not and often
will not extend the entire length of the elongated runners.
Instead, in at least some instances, the belt guide surfaces of the
elongated runners are usefully further imparted with non-convex
(e.g., substantially flat or planar) surface geometries in selected
regions of the runners. Thus, in such instances, the belt guide
surfaces of the elongated runners are effectively imparted with
variable surface geometries that transition or change when moving
along runner length. For example, when moving along the runner
lengths, the belt guide surfaces may transition from substantially
flat or planar surface geometries at first terminal end portions of
the elongated runners, to convex surface geometries in intermediate
sections of the runners, and perhaps return to substantially flat
or planar surface geometries at second terminal end portions of the
runners. Additionally or alternatively, the belt guide surfaces of
the runners may transition from convex surface geometries to other
non-convex (e.g., flat) surface geometries in selected regions
corresponding to roller-facing regions of the belt guide surfaces
and/or in regions of the runners joined to connecting structures
(e.g., cross-support members) also included in the runner
assembly.
[0026] An embodiment of a build-up resistant crop conveyor system
will now be described by way of non-limiting example. In the
example embodiment below, the build-up resistant crop conveyor
system is described as integrated into a particular type of
crop-handling agricultural machine, namely, a round baler. The
following example notwithstanding, it is emphasized that
embodiments of the build-up resistant crop conveyor system can be
integrated into various other types of crop-handling agricultural
machines including, but not limited to, windrowers and conveyor
belt-containing header attachments (e.g., draper heads) for
agricultural combines.
Example Embodiment of Round Baler Including Build-Up Resistant Crop
Conveyor System
[0027] FIG. 1 schematically depicts an example round baler 20
containing a build-up resistant crop conveyor system 22, as
illustrated in accordance with an example embodiment. The build-up
resistant crop conveyor system 22 includes a runner assembly 24 and
certain other components, such as a conveyor belt run; the term
"conveyor belt run," as appearing herein, referring to conveyor
belt or a series of parallel conveyor belts for moving crop
material in an intended manner during conveyor belt rotation. The
example build-up resistant crop conveyor system 22 is further
described below in connection with FIGS. 2-9. First, however,
various other components of the illustrated round baler 20 are
discussed to provide a non-limiting context in which the example
embodiment of the build-up resistant crop conveyor system 22 may be
better understood.
[0028] In addition to the build-up resistant crop conveyor system
22, the round baler 20 includes a main frame or baler housing 26
containing a baling chamber 28 in which cylindrical bales are
formed as the round baler 20 is towed or otherwise moved across a
crop field. The round baler 20 is equipped with a pair of ground
wheels 30 and a tongue 32, which facilitates towing of the baler 20
behind a tractor or similar work vehicle. In the illustrated
example, the round baler 20 is mechanically powered by the work
vehicle utilized to tow the baler 20. In particular, the round
baler 20 may be mechanically driven by the engine of a work vehicle
through a non-illustrated power take-off (PTO) shaft, which is
connected to a corresponding shaft or coupling when the round baler
20 is mated to the work vehicle. In other implementations, the
round baler 20 may be independently powered.
[0029] As further schematically depicted in FIG. 1, a system of
bale-forming belts 36, 38 is located within the baler housing 26
and positioned about the baling chamber 28 of the baler 20. The
bale-forming belts 36, 38 include a number of belt runs (e.g.,
front and rear belt runs), which are supported by multiple
rotatable shafts or rollers 40 mounted traversely across opposing
sidewalls of the baler housing 26. Tensioning arms 42 tension the
bale-forming belts 36, 38 around crop bales as such bales are
formed within the baling chamber 28. Front and rear idler rolls 44,
46 further cooperate with the belt runs and the tensioning arms 42
to impart the baling chamber 28 with a variable volume, which
adjusts in relation to the size or diameter of the crop bales
formed in chamber 28. The round baler 20 may include various other
non-illustrated components to further tension the bale-forming
belts 36, 38 in embodiments, such as any number of tensioning
springs, hydraulic cylinders, or the like.
[0030] As the round baler 20 is towed across a field, a crop intake
assembly 34 gathers crop material, such as a cut hay or another
cereal grain, into the baling chamber 28. To enable delivery of the
collected crop material into the baling chamber 28, a crop intake
opening 48 is provided adjacent a bottom portion of the baling
chamber 28. A pickup 50 intakes the crop material into the crop
intake opening 48. A starter roll 52, mounted traversely within the
baler housing 26 proximate the crop intake opening 48, facilitates
bale formation by stripping crop material carried downwardly by the
front run of the belt system 36, 38. The ingested crop material is
then rolled into a cylindrical shape or "round bale" within the
baling chamber 28 by a turning or tumbling motion induced by
rotation of the bale-forming belts 36, 38. An example of a
newly-produced crop bale 54, as formed by the rolling motion of the
bale-forming belts 36, 38, is shown in phantom FIG. 1.
[0031] After the crop bale 54 has reached a desired size, a wrap
material supply system 56 is activated to wrap or wind the
newly-formed crop bale 54 with a length of wrap material, such as a
relatively thin mesh or netting. A non-illustrated controller may
determine when the crop bale 54 has reached its desired size
utilizing sensor data indicative of, for example, current bale
diameter and drive roll speed. When activated, the wrap material
supply system 56 feeds wrap material drawn from a wrap material
roll 58 into the baling chamber 28. More specifically, the
controller may initiate wrapping of the crop bale 54 by commanding
a linear actuator 60 to extend an output shaft 62, as shown in its
retracted state in FIG. 1. Extension of the actuator output shaft
62 places the wrap material roll 58 in engagement with a spinning
feed roll 64, which may have a tacky (e.g., rubberized) outer
surface, thereby drawing material from the wrap material roll 58.
Extension of the output shaft 62 also rotates a counter-knife arm
66 in a first rotational direction (counter-clockwise in the
orientation shown in FIG. 1). Further rotation of the crop bale 54
within the baling chamber 28, as induced by the action of the
bale-forming belts 36, 38, then applies the wrap material about the
outer periphery of the crop bale 54.
[0032] After application of a sufficient length of wrap material
about the periphery of the crop bale 54, the wrap material drawn
from the wrap material roll 58 is severed by the wrap material
supply system 56. To accomplish this, the linear actuator 60 is
commanded to retract output shaft 62 in a manner terminating
feeding of material from the wrap material roll 58, while further
rotating the counter-knife arm 66 in an opposing rotational
direction (clockwise in the illustrated orientation). The rotating
counter-knife arm 66 pinches the wrap material between a cutting
edge of the counter-knife arm 66 and a non-illustrated stationary
edge or "counter-knife angle" further included in the wrap material
supply system 56. This severs the drawn wrap material at a location
between the newly-wrapped crop bale 54 and the wrap material roll
58 held within the wrap material supply system 56. Following
cutting of the wrap material, the crop bale 54 is then ejected from
the baling chamber 28. In particular, a pair of gate cylinders 68
(one of which can be seen in FIG. 1) are extended in manner
swinging an aft hatch or baler gate frame 70 upwardly into an open
position. The wrapped crop bale 54 is then discharged from the
baling chamber 28 and onto the ground 72 for subsequent
retrieval.
[0033] FIG. 2 provides a perspective view of the example round
baler 20 when ejecting the newly-wrapped crop bale 54 from the
baling chamber 28, as previously described. With the baler gate
frame 70 rotated into an open or upright position for bale
ejection, the build-up resistant crop conveyor system 22 and the
runner assembly 24 are more clearly revealed. Here, it can be seen
that the runner assembly 24 supports (that is, serves as a physical
guide for) a conveyor belt run 74 containing a series of conveyor
belts or bands arranged in a side-by-side relationship. When the
baler gate frame 70 is returned to the closed position shown in
FIG. 1, the runner assembly 24 is generally located beneath the
baling chamber 28 such that the weight of the conveyor belt runs
36, 38 urges the belt run 74 against the runners of runner assembly
24.
[0034] Referring now to FIG. 3, the baler gate frame 70 of the
example round baler 20 (FIGS. 1 and 2) is shown in isolation with a
near side of the gate frame 70 hidden from view. In this drawing
figure, the baler gate frame 70 is shown in its open, bale-ejection
position corresponding to the position shown in FIG. 2. A length of
wrap material 76 is further shown as drawn from the wrap material
roll 58, which is contained within a housing or cover piece 78 of
the supply system 56 and thus hidden from view in FIG. 3. The drawn
wrap material 76 is located inboard of or interior to the runner
assembly 24. Stated differently, the drawn wrap material 76 is
located closer to the baling chamber 28 of the round baler 20 than
is the runner assembly 24, considered when the baler gate frame 70
resides in the closed position (FIG. 1). Although not shown in FIG.
3, the belt run 74 is further located to the interior of the drawn
wrap material 76 such that the wrap material 76 is guided between
the runner assembly 24 and the belt run 74 when delivered into the
baling chamber 28 by the wrap material supply system 56.
[0035] Referring also now to FIG. 4, the example runner assembly 24
contains a plurality of elongated beams, support members, or
runners 80. In the illustrated embodiment, the runner assembly 24
contains a total of six elongated runners 80, which are spaced at
regular intervals along a lateral axis of the runner assembly 24
(extending parallel to the Z-axis of the coordinate legend 82
appearing in FIG. 4). In alternative implementations, the runner
assembly 24 can include a greater or lesser number of runners 80,
which may be arranged in other spatial configurations. The runners
80 are elongated along their longitudinal axes, which generally
extend from the left to the right in FIG. 4. More particularly, the
longitudinal axes of the elongated runners 80 extend parallel to
the X-axis of the coordinate legend 82 and parallel to the primary
direction of belt travel of the supported belt run 74 (identified
by arrow 84). As previously noted, the term "primary direction of
belt travel" refers to the principal direction in which the
conveyor surfaces of the belt run 74 travel when passing adjacent
the runner assembly 24.
[0036] In addition to the elongated runners 80, the runner assembly
24 further includes a number of connective structures or
cross-support members 86, 88, which across and extend perpendicular
to the elongated runners 80. Specifically, the example runner
assembly 24 includes a first cross-beam or cross-support member 86,
which extends across and is joined to first end portions of the
elongated runners 80; and a second cross-beam or cross-support
member 88, which extends across and is joined to second, opposing
end portions of the runners 80. The runner assembly 24 still
further includes a A-frame support 90, 92, which is assembled from
two angled beam members 90 and a third cross-support member 92. At
a first end thereof, the angled beams 90 are joined to
cross-support member 86 (as shown on the left of FIG. 4). At a
second, opposing end thereof, the angled beams 90 are joined to
cross-support member 92 (as shown on the right of FIG. 4). The
A-frame support 90, 92 may further reinforce the example runner
assembly 24 when installed in the baler gate frame 70, as best
observed in FIGS. 2 and 3. Further, the A-frame support 90, 92
provides a physical standoff between the supported belt run 74 and
the exterior of the round baler 20 for increased operator
safety.
[0037] The particular construction and composition of the elongated
runners 80 and cross-support members 86, 88 will vary among
embodiments. In embodiments, by way of non-limiting example, the
elongated runners 80 are conveniently fabricated from sheet metal,
which is rolled and otherwise formed into the appropriate
cross-sectional shapes and cut to length. Comparatively, the
cross-support member 86 may be formed as a tubular pipe or beam,
while the cross-support member 88 may be formed from a flat strip
of sheet metal. The joinder between the elongated runners 80 and
cross-support members 86, 88 can be formed in various manners,
whether utilizing mechanical fasteners, a permanent joinder
technique (e.g., welding), or a combination thereof. Further
description of the joints formed between the elongated runners 80
and cross-support members 86, 88 is provided below.
[0038] As previously discussed, conventional runner assembly
designs often fail to maintain low friction operation over extended
periods of in-field usage due, at least in part, to the
susceptibility of such runner assemblies to the formation of
on-runner crop deposits. In accordance with teachings of the
present disclosure, it has been determined that the propensity for
the formation of on-runner crop deposits stems, at least in
principal part, from a lack of physical conformity between the belt
guide surfaces of the elongated runners and the conveyor belt(s) of
the conveyor belt run in certain localized areas. Further
explained, the conveyor belt(s) contained in the belt run
inherently have some degree of rigidity, as determined by various
factors including the (typically woven) construction of the
conveyor belt(s) and force vectors urging the conveyor belt(s)
against the elongated runners. The conveyor belt(s) within a given
belt run are consequently incapable of precise conformance against
the flat or planar runner surfaces along the length of the runners,
even when forcibly pressed there against. As a result, a low
conformance interface is created between the supported belt run and
the elongated runners along certain surface regions thereof; the
term "low conformance interface" referring to the degree to which
the surface geometry or contour of the runner belt guide surfaces
conforms with (matches or follows the shape of) the conveyor belt
shape adjacent the belt guide surfaces. Due to such low conformance
interfaces, small gaps or voids are permitted to open between the
belt guide surfaces of the elongated runners and the conveyor belt
run during operation of the crop conveyor system, with such gaps or
voids providing unoccupied space within which loose crop material
may freely deposit onto the belt guide surfaces of the elongated
runners, grow in volume, harden by packing, and form on-runner crop
deposits.
[0039] Referring briefly to FIG. 10, a simplified cross-section
depicts an example of a gap or void 94 created due to a low
conformance interface between the runner-facing surface of a
conveyor belt 96 and conventional belt guide surface 98 of an
elongated runner 100. The belt guide surface 98 of the runner 100
principally has a non-convex, substantially flat geometry along the
length of the elongated runner 100; although the longitudinal
corner regions of the runner 100 may have a certain curvature or
radii due to the manner in which the runner 100 is rolled or
otherwise formed from sheet metal stock. Due to the predominately
flat geometry of belt guide surface 98, taken across the width of
the runner 100, contact between the conveyor belt 96 and the belt
guide surface 98 is generally limited to the corner regions 102 of
the elongated runner 100. Further, the formation of the gap 94
provides an unoccupied void, space, or pocket in which loose crop
material may adhere to a central portion of the belt guide surface
98 and ultimately form on-runner crop deposits. If such on-runner
crop deposits should form and aggregate to a sufficient size,
contact may occur between the crop deposit and a central portion of
the conveyor belt 96. Contact between the conveyor belt 96 and the
on-runner crop deposit (which is often characterized by a highly
rough, compacted outer surface) may result in the generation of
excessive friction and waste heat, exacerbate belt wear, and
otherwise detract from the overall performance of the crop conveyor
system.
[0040] To overcome the above-described issues associated with
conventional runners, at least some, if not all of the elongated
runners 80 contained in the example runner assembly 24 are imparted
with tailored surface geometries having convex surface regions,
which increase physical conformance with the conveyor belt(s)
contained in a corresponding belt run. With respect to the example
runner assembly 24, specifically, the elongated runners 100 may
each include convex surface regions or geometries increasing
physical conformance with the conveyor belts included in the belt
run 74 identified in FIG. 2. Such convex surface geometries may not
extend the entirety of the respective lengths of the elongated
runners 100, but rather may be strategically formed in certain
regions of the runner guide surfaces, such as those regions of the
runners 100 located adjacent portions of the conveyor belts that
tend to assume concave shapes, as described below. Concurrently,
other surface regions of the elongated runners 100, such as those
regions of the runners 100 located adjacent rollers (e.g., the
rollers 40 shown in FIG. 3) or joined to a cross-support member
(e.g., the cross-support member 88 shown in FIG. 4) may be imparted
with non-convex (e.g., substantially flat or planar) surface
geometries, which better conform with conveyor belt shape in such
regions, as also discussed below.
[0041] For ease of description, the following focuses on a single
elongated runner 80 included in the example runner assembly 24
having both convex and non-convex (e.g., flat or planar) surface
regions. While a single elongated runner 80 is shown and discussed
in connection with FIGS. 5-9 below, each of the elongated runners
80 contained in the example runner assembly 24 may have similar, if
not identical constructions and surface geometries in the
illustrated example; thus, the following description is equally
applicable to all of the runners 80 contained in the example runner
assembly 24 shown in FIGS. 1-4. This notwithstanding, the elongated
runners 80 included in the runner assembly 24 may differ in further
embodiments such that each runner 80, or different subsets of
runners 80, may be imparted with varying constructions and/or
surface geometries in alternative embodiments of the build-up
resistant crop conveyor system 22.
[0042] Advancing to FIGS. 5 and 6, top and bottom isometric views
of the example elongated runner 80 are presented. The elongated
runner 80 includes a first end portion 104, an intermediat or
"elongated body" portion 106, and a second end portion 108. The
first and second end portions 104, 108 are spaced or opposed along
the longitudinal axis of the illustrated runner 80, which extends
parallel to the X-axis identified by the coordinate legend 114. The
boundaries or junctures between the first end portion 104, the
intermediate portion 106, and the second end portion 108 are
somewhat conceptual; however, the intermediate portion 106 of the
elongated runner 80 generally corresponds to the region of the
runner 80 in which the below-described protuberance or raised
feature is formed. Further, it may be the case that the
intermediate portion 106 of the elongated runner 80 has a length at
least twice, if not ten times the respective lengths of the end
portions 104, 108, as measured along the longitudinal axis of the
runner 80 (again, parallel to the X-axis of the coordinate legend
114).
[0043] The example runner 80 further includes laterally-opposed
sidewalls 112 and notches 110, which are formed in the sidewalls
112 proximate the end portion 104 of the elongated runner 80. The
notches 110 facilitate attachment to the cross-support member 86 in
embodiments when the cross-support member 86 has a tubular,
pipe-like formfactor, as shown in FIG. 4. In other embodiments, the
elongated runner 80 may lack the notches 110 and/or have other
features (e.g., additional cut-outs) to facilitate attachment to
either or both of the cross-support members 86, 88. Further, the
end portion 104 of the elongated runner 80 may be imparted with a
slight inward bend or curvature (that is, a bend in the direction
of the baling chamber 28) to, for example, better follow the
curvature of the outer circumferential surface of the lower roller
40 shown in FIG. 3 when the runner assembly 24 is installed in the
baler gate frame 70 (FIGS. 1-3).
[0044] Collectively referring to FIGS. 5-8, the elongated runner 80
has a thin-walled construction in the illustrated example, with a
trench or open channel 116 extending longitudinally along the
underside of the runner 80. As previously indicated, the elongated
runner 80 includes two sidewalls 112, which are opposed along a
lateral axis of the runner 80 (parallel to the Z-axis of the
coordinate legend 114). As identified in FIGS. 7 and 8, a main
section or front wall 118 extends along the width of the runner 80
between the sidewalls 112 and is joined thereto at
laterally-opposed corner regions 120. Facing the belt run 74 (FIG.
2), a belt guide surface 122 is provided exclusively or principally
on the exterior of the front wall 118. The belt guide surface 122
may extend onto the corner regions 120 and, perhaps, onto upper
portions of the sidewalls 112 depending upon the particular manner
in which the corresponding conveyor belt interacts with the
elongated runner 80; e.g., whether the guided conveyor belt
routinely contacts these areas of the runner 80.
[0045] The front wall 118 and the sidewalls 112 of the elongated
runner 80 are conveniently, although non-essentially formed as a
single piece or integral part. When so formed, the sidewalls 112 of
the elongated runner 80 may be integrally joined to opposing
longitudinal edges of the front wall 118 in a manner imparting the
runner 80 with a substantially U-shaped geometry, as viewed along
the longitudinal axis of the runner 80. The U-shaped geometry of
the runner 80 opens in the direction opposite the front wall 188
and, more specifically, opposite the belt guide surface 122. In
various embodiments, the elongated runner 80 may fabricated by
processing sheet metal utilizing any number of known forming
techniques, such as rolling to produce the beam-like body of the
runner 80. A die pressing or stamping technique may be further
utilized to create one or more localized (e.g., raised) features or
protrusions to impart certain surface regions of front wall 188
with convex surface geometries, as described below. In still
further embodiments, the elongated runner 80 (and the other runners
80 included in the runner assembly 24) can be fabricated in other
manners (e.g., by metal extrusion) and/or composed of other
materials including composite materials, such as carbon fiber.
Further, in certain embodiments, a coating material may be applied
over the entirely or selected regions of belt guide surface 122 to,
for example, decrease surface friction with the guided conveyor
belt. In other embodiments, such a low friction coating may not be
applied to belt guide surface 122.
[0046] The belt guide surface 122 of the example elongated runner
80 includes a convex surface region 124 and two substantially flat
or planar surface regions 126, 128. The convex surface region 124
has a convex surface geometry in a first series of successive
section planes extending along the runner length. These section
planes are oriented parallel to the lateral axis of the runner
assembly 24 and the elongated runner 80 (corresponding to the
Z-axis of the coordinate legend 114 in FIGS. 5 and 6), orthogonal
to the primary direction of belt travel (identified by arrow 84 in
FIG. 4), and orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the runner 80
(corresponding to the X-axis of the coordinate legend 114).
Consider, as an example, the section plane corresponding to the
cross-section shown in FIG. 7 and encompassing line 7-7 (FIGS. 5
and 6). As can be seen, the surface region 124 of the elongated
runner 80 has a gently curved, convex surface geometry in this
section plane. The convex surface region 124 of the example
elongated runner 80 has a convex cross-sectional geometry spanning
the majority, if not the substantial entirety of the runner width,
as measured along the lateral axis of the runner 80 (identified by
double-headed arrow 138 in FIG. 9). Additionally, and as best shown
in FIG. 5, the convex surface region 124 is formed in intermediate
portion 106 of the elongated runner 80 and extends at least a
majority of the runner length, as taken along the longitudinal axis
of runner 80 (again, corresponding to the X-axis of the coordinate
legend 114). More broadly, the belt guide surfaces 122 of some, if
not all of the elongated runners 80 may be imparted with similar or
identical convex surface regions taken in the section plane of FIG.
7 (when visually extended to intersect all of the runners 80 of the
example runner assembly 24).
[0047] The surface geometry of the convex surface region 124, and
the manner in which this surface geometry substantially matches or
follows the adjacent surface contour of a corresponding conveyor
belt 130, may be better appreciated by reference to FIG. 9
(corresponding to the cross-section shown in FIG. 7). In this
drawing figure, it can be seen that the convex surface region 124
is imparted with a convex contour substantially matching,
complementing, or following the concave contour of a runner-facing
surface 132 of the conveyor belt 130. The convex surface region 124
of the belt guide surface 122 of the elongated runner 80 is
imparted with a curved, non-stepped surface geometry following a
first radius of curvature (r.sub.1) or "radius of runner curvature"
identified by double-headed arrow 134. The radius runner of
curvature (r.sub.1) of the convex surface region 124 extends from a
first outermost contact point (P.sub.1) adjacent the left sidewall
112 to a second outermost contact point (P.sub.2) adjacent the
right sidewall 112. The term "outermost contact point," as
appearing herein, refers to a contact point between the belt guide
surface 122 and the runner-facing surface 132 located furthest the
longitudinal axis or centerline of the runner 80 (corresponding to
X-axis of the coordinate legend 114), taken in either direction
along the lateral axis of the runner 80 (corresponding to Z-axis of
the coordinate legend 114).
[0048] In the illustrated cross-section of FIG. 9, the concave,
runner-facing surface 132 of the conveyor belt 130 essentially
follows a second radius of curvature (r.sub.2) or "radius of belt
curvature," as taken between the first and second contact points
(P.sub.1,2) and identified by double-headed arrow 136. In various
embodiments, the convex surface region 124 of the elongated runner
80 may be contoured or shaped such that the radius runner of
curvature (r.sub.1) substantially matches or follows the radius of
belt curvature (r.sub.2); the term "substantially matches," as
appearing herein, denoting a disparity of less than 10%. In other
embodiments, the radius of runner curvature (r.sub.1) may differ
from the radius of belt curvature (r.sub.2) to a greater extent,
providing that the convex surface region 124 is imparted with a
convex surface geometry increasing conformity with the
runner-facing surface 132 of the conveyor belt 130. In still other
embodiments, the radius of runner curvature (r.sub.1) of convex
surface region 124 may be greater than and, perhaps, may be at
least twice the runner width (W.sub.1), with the runner width
(W.sub.1) measured along the lateral axis of runner 80 and
identified by double-headed arrow 138 in FIG. 9. In further
embodiments, the convex surface region 124 may have more complex
cross-sectional surface geometries defined by additional radii of
curvature, with the possibility that certain localized surface
features or, perhaps, rounded step features approximating a larger
curve or multiple curved sections can be formed in the convex
surface region 124 of the elongated runner 80.
[0049] The convex surface region 124, as considered in the
cross-section shown in FIGS. 7 and 9, may further be described as
having an apex or peak height. The location of the peak height of
the convex surface region 124 in the illustrated cross-section is
identified by marker P.sub.3 in FIG. 9. In instances in which the
convex surface region 124 is bilaterally symmetry about a plane
orthogonal to the illustrated cross-sectional plane, the peak
height (P.sub.3) of the convex surface region 124 may be located
equidistantly between the sidewalls 112 of the elongated runner 80.
The dimension of the peak height (P.sub.3), as measured as a
vertical offset from a line connecting the two outer points of
contact (P.sub.1, P.sub.2), will vary among embodiments. However,
by way of non-limiting example in which the elongated runner 80 is
formed from sheet metal having a specified flatness tolerance
(e.g., as set-forth in the material specifications), the peak
height (P.sub.3) may be at least twice the specified flatness
tolerance of the sheet metal from which the runner 80 is produced.
Additionally or alternatively, the peak height (P.sub.3) may be
greater than at least one half the average wall thickness of the
elongated runner 80 in embodiments, with a wall thickness of the
elongated runner 80 identified in the right side of FIG. 9 and
labeled WT.sub.1.
[0050] The example elongated runner 80 further includes two
substantially flat or planar surface regions 126, 128 of the belt
guide surface 122, which are formed on the end portions 104, 108 of
the runner 80. As a result of this variance in surface topology,
the belt guide surface 122 of the elongated runner 80 transitions
from a first substantially flat or planar surface geometry to a
convex surface geometry when moving from the first end portion 104
to the intermediate portion 106 of the elongated runner 80, as
taken along the runner's longitudinal axis (corresponding to the
X-axis of the coordinate legend 114). Similarly, the belt guide
surface 122 of the runner 80 further transitions from the convex
surface geometry within convex surface region 124 to a second
substantially flat or planar surface geometry when moving from the
intermediate portion 106 to the second end portion 108 of the
elongated runner 80, as further taken along the runner's
longitudinal axis. Such transitions between convex and flat (or
other non-convex) surface geometries ideally follow a gently
ramped, non-stepped contour to provide a gradual change in surface
topology to ease the transition of the guided conveyor belt 130
when guided over these regions of the elongated runner 80. In other
implementations, the belt guide surface 122 of the elongated runner
80 may be more complex and, perhaps, include a greater number of
localized convex surface regions interspersed with a greater number
of non-convex (e.g., flat) surface regions along the runner
length.
[0051] As further shown in FIG. 9, a double-headed arrow 144
represents an inner width of the runner (here, measured between the
inwardly-facing surfaces of the sidewalls 144). A line 146 extends
parallel to the lateral axis of the runner 80 and through the
corner or bend regions 120 of the runner 80; e.g., in embodiments,
the line 146 may connect two interior points at which the runner's
curvature begins or, instead, two points of maximum curvature or
bend radii on the interior of the runner 80. Finally, the dimension
H.sub.PEAK represents a peak height of the convex surface region
124 of the runner 80, as measured from the line 146 along an axis
orthogonal to the lateral and longitudinal axes of the runner
(represented by a double-headed arrow 148). In various embodiments,
the convex surface region 124 of the runner 80 is shaped such that
H.sub.PEAK ranges from about 3% to about 25% of the convex surface
region 124 of the runner 80 (dimension 144 in FIG. 9) in the
illustrated section plane. In other embodiments, the convex surface
of the runner 80 may be shaped such that H.sub.PEAK is greater than
or less than the aforementioned range.
[0052] FIG. 8 is a simplified cross-section view of the end portion
104 of the elongated runner 80 along a section plane containing
line 8-8 (FIGS. 6 and 7) and extending parallel to the section
plane of FIGS. 7 and 9. The geometry of the belt guide surface 122
in this cross-section plane is predominately defined by, or closely
follows, a plane extending parallel to the longitudinal and lateral
axes of the runner 80. Imparting the belt guide surface 122 with
such a flat planar geometry at the end portion 104 is beneficial in
that the end portion 104 of the runner 80 is positioned adjacent
lower roller 40 (FIG. 3) when the runner assembly 24 is installed
with the baler gate frame 70. In this region, the runner-facing
surface 132 of the conveyor belt 130 assumes an increasingly flat
or non-concave shape due to the physical interaction of the
conveyor belt 130 with the corresponding roller 40. By imparting
the end portion 104 of the runner 80 with such a flat surface
geometry, a high conformance interface is maintained in this region
of the belt guide surface 122 with the runner-facing surface 132 of
the conveyor belt 130, with such a high conformance interface
preserved to a greater extent than would otherwise be achieved if
the convex surface geometry of the intermediate portion 106 of the
elongated runner 80 were to extend fully to the end portion 104 of
the runner 80. In a broader sense, and similar to the
cross-sectional geometry shown in FIGS. 7 and 9, the belt guide
surfaces 122 of some, if not all of the elongated runners 80 may be
imparted with similar or identical flat surface regions in the
section plane of FIG. 8 (when visually extended to intersect all of
the runners 80 of the example runner assembly 24 and again noting
that this section plane is parallel to the section plane of FIGS. 7
and 9).
[0053] The end portion 108 of the example elongated runner 80 is
likewise imparted with a substantially flat or planar surface
geometry substantially identical to that shown in FIG. 8. The
previous description set-forth in connection with FIG. 8 pertaining
to the substantially flat surface geometry of the end portion 104
is thus equally applicable to the surface geometry of the opposing
end portion 102 of the elongated runner 80. Once again, by
imparting the end potion 108 of the runner 80 with a flat surface
geometry, conveyor belt conformity is increased in a region
adjacent a conveyor belt-supporting roller; i.e., the upper roller
40 shown in FIG. 3. Further, as an additional benefit, imparting
the end portion 108 of the elongated runner 80 with such a flat or
substantially planar surface geometry eases or helps simplify the
joiner interface with the cross-support member 88. In particular,
such a flat surface geometry enables the elongated runner 80 (and
the other runners 80 included in the runner assembly 24) to
positioned flat or flush against the adjacent flat wall of the
cross-support member 88, as shown in FIG. 4.
[0054] The particular manner in which selected region(s) of the
belt guide surface 122 are imparted with a convex surface geometry
will vary among embodiments depending, in part, upon the manner in
which elongated runner 80 is fabricated. In the illustrated example
in which the elongated runner 80 is produced by rolling or
otherwise forming sheet metal into a desired shape, the
intermediate portion 106 of the elongated runner 80 may be imparted
with a convex surface geometry utilizing a stamping or die pressing
technique. In particular, prior to or following forming of a metal
sheet into the general, beam-like shape of the elongated runner 90,
a raised protrusion 142 (FIG. 5) may be pressed or stamped the
front wall 118 of the runner 80 from the backside thereof. A
suitable press die or other tool may be utilized for this purpose.
This results in the formation of an elongated, sloped ridge or
raised protrusion 142, which extends longitudinally along the
length of the intermediate portion 106 of the elongated runner 80,
as best shown in FIG. 5. Concurrently, a concavity 140 is formed in
the backside of the front wall 118 of the runner 80 as viewed from
the underside of the runner 80 and as best shown in FIG. 6.
Enumerated Examples of the Build-Up Resistant Crop Conveyor
Systems
[0055] The following examples of the build-up resistant crop
conveyor system are further provided and numbered for ease of
reference.
[0056] 1. A build-up resistant crop conveyor system utilized within
an agricultural machine is provided. In various embodiments, the
build-up resistant crop conveyor includes a conveyor belt run
extending along a primary direction of belt travel, as well as a
runner assembly adjacent the conveyor belt run. The runner assembly
includes, in turn, elongated runners extending substantially
parallel to the primary direction of belt travel and spaced along a
lateral axis perpendicular to the primary direction of belt travel.
Belt guide surfaces are provided on the elongated runners and face
the conveyor belt run. The belt guide surfaces have convex surface
regions in a first section plane parallel to the lateral axis and
perpendicular to the primary direction of belt travel. The convex
surface regions increase conformity between the belt guide surfaces
and the conveyor belt run to reduce crop build-up on the elongated
runners during usage of the build-up resistant crop conveyor
system.
[0057] 2. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of example 1,
further including a roller supporting the conveyor belt run and
extending parallel to the lateral axis. The belt guide surfaces
further include non-convex surface regions adjacent the roller.
[0058] 3. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of example 2,
wherein the non-convex surface regions have substantially flat
surface geometries in a second section plane parallel to the first
section plane.
[0059] 4. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of example 1,
wherein the convex surface regions each have a surface geometry
defined, at least in substantial part, by a radius of curvature in
the first section plane.
[0060] 5. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of example 4,
wherein the elongated runners have runner widths measured along the
lateral axis. The radius of curvature exceeds each of the runner
widths.
[0061] 6. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of example 1,
wherein the elongated runners include: (i) first end portions; (ii)
second end portions opposite the first end portions, as taken along
longitudinal axes of the elongated runners; and (iii) intermediate
portions extending between the first and second end portions, the
convex surface regions located on the intermediate portions of the
elongated runners.
[0062] 7. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of example 6,
wherein the belt guide surfaces transition from substantially flat
surface geometries to convex surface geometries to when moving from
the first end portions to the intermediate portions of the
elongated runners.
[0063] 8. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of example 7,
wherein the belt guide surfaces follow ramped contours when
transitioning from substantially flat surface geometries to the
convex surface geometries.
[0064] 9. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of example 7,
wherein the belt guide surfaces further transition from additional
substantially flat surface geometries to the convex surface
geometries to when moving from the second end portions to the
intermediate portions of the elongated runners.
[0065] 10. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of example
1, wherein the runner assembly further includes a cross-support
member extending across and joined to the elongated runners. The
belt guide surface further include non-convex surface regions at
locations adjacent the cross-support member.
[0066] 11. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of example
1, wherein the elongated runners include front walls on which the
belt guide surfaces are located, as well as raised protrusions
pressed into the front walls from backsides thereof to define the
convex surface regions. The raised protrusions form concavities in
the backsides of the front walls.
[0067] 12. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of example
11, wherein the elongated runners further include sidewalls
integrally joined to opposing longitudinal edges of the front walls
and imparting the elongated runners with U-shaped cross-sectional
geometries, as viewed along longitudinal axes of the elongated
runners.
[0068] 13. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of example
1, wherein the convex surface geometries are each define, at least
in substantial part, by a first radius of curvature taken in the
first section plane. The conveyor belt run includes a plurality of
conveyor belts arranged in a side-by-side relationship.
Additionally, the plurality of conveyor belts include curved
runner-facing surfaces each having a second radius of curvature
taken in the first section plane, the second radius of curvature
substantially matching the first radius of curvature.
[0069] 14. The build-up resistant crop conveyor system of example
1, further including a baler gate frame into which the runner
assembly is incorporated.
[0070] 15. In further embodiments, the build-up resistant crop
conveyor includes a conveyor belt run extending in a primary
direction of belt travel and a first elongated runner adjacent the
conveyor belt run. The first elongated runner has a longitudinal
axis extending substantially parallel to the primary direction of
belt travel. The first elongated runner further includes a first
end portion; a second end portion opposite the first end portion,
as taken along a longitudinal axis; an intermediate portion between
the first and second end portions; a belt guide surface extending
from the first end portion, across the intermediate portion, and to
the second end portion; and a raised protrusion formed in the
intermediate portion and extending toward the conveyor belt run.
The raised protrusion is shaped to increase conformity between the
belt guide surface and the conveyor belt run to reduce crop
build-up on the elongated runner during usage of the build-up
resistant crop conveyor system.
Conclusion
[0071] There has thus been provided crop conveyor systems including
elongated runners having uniquely contoured surface geometries,
which improve physical conformance with conveyor belt surfaces
included in a neighboring belt run. In at least some embodiments,
the belt guide surfaces of the elongated runners are imparted with
geometries or topologies vary along the length of the runners. In
such embodiments, the belt guide surfaces may transition from
convex geometries to other non-convex geometries in selected
regions, as taken along the runner lengths; e.g., the belt guide
surfaces may transition from convex surface geometries to
substantially flat surface geometries proximate roller-facing
regions of the runners and/or proximate regions of the runners
joined to one or more cross-support members. Due to the enhanced
resistance to crop material build-up achieved by strategic
contouring of the runner belt guide surfaces, low friction
operation can be better maintained between the belt run and the
runner assembly to prolong belt life, to reduce friction-generated
heat, and to otherwise optimize crop conveyor system
performance.
[0072] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an," and "the" are
intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context
clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the
terms "comprises" and/or "comprising," when used in this
specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers,
steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude
the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers,
steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
[0073] The description of the present disclosure has been presented
for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended
to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosure in the form
disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to
those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope
and spirit of the disclosure. Explicitly referenced embodiments
herein were chosen and described in order to best explain the
principles of the disclosure and their practical application, and
to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the
disclosure and recognize many alternatives, modifications, and
variations on the described example(s). Accordingly, various
embodiments and implementations other than those explicitly
described are within the scope of the following claims.
* * * * *